Another scenario could be that once the investor has the deed and I've been able to do proper due diligence on the property (value, title search, etc), I would consider lending against the property including renovation funding (per my terms).   

Proper due diligence will reduce your risk, but it won’t eliminate it entirely.Personally, I like value-add opportunities because they build in equity from the start.

I would think that if the mortgage was recorded properly, it will simply be paid off.This is a question that you probably should have asked of the title company / lawyer before going under contract. 

I would make sure that crawl space is vented proper, may need a small commercial grade fan not sure .

For newly constructed, purchased or renovated properties and also retroactive generally over the last 10 years, building components are properly classified into individual units of property and accurate recovery periods for computing depreciation deductions.

You may be able to do one contract, however, we have run into issues with having to show a proper management contract for utilities or subsidies that we needed one that just had the one LLC on it. 

Get 3 estimates, some times they will only  replace to the point of proper old sewer line only that can save money  BIG time   .They will add a clean out  next to the house one out farther where they stopped the new sewer line  replacement .As far as suing  any one on such a manner need to figure out what the legal  cost are plus what  percent chance of success then decide  of you want to roll the dice  unfortunately this type of scam happens a lot now a days .

Also, I can't really list it until I have my own proper photos, which means waiting until we get occupancy, so it could potentially sit empty for a while.My questions are:- Aside from listing on Furnished Finder, are there any other ways to connect with potential MTR tenants?

You do not state what is actually "breaking" with your systems, but AC's generally last longer than many other appliances when they are properly and regularly serviced.

Is it functioning properly?